The area, belonging to Brevard County Utility Services, consists of 200 acres of wetlands including the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands at Viera and nearby Storage Ponds.
The area was closed in June 2023 to implement a $2.7 million project with funding through federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars. The efforts included removing vegetative muck and overgrown cattails from four adjacent ponds. Cleanup focused on reducing nitrogen and phosphorous levels from the ponds that feed into the Four Mile Canal and onto the St. Johns River.
The conservation lands draw eco-tourists, photographers, and birders. As many as 210,000 visitors per year visit the constructed treatment wetland system. Its popularity is attributed to the site's stunning views and abundance of wildlife.
The lands partially reopened on March 4, 2024, and anticipate project completion (weather permitting) in July.
A Bit of History
2006: Through the sale of Florida Wildflower License Plates, the Brevard County Natural Resource Management Department was awarded an $11,004.00 educational grant by the Florida Wildflower Foundation, Inc. The banks of the lakes and ponds demonstrate the use of wildflowers.
The vast central lake perimeter, approximately one mile of shoreline, was seeded with Florida wildflower species.
2007: The Board of County Commissioners designated the South Central Regional Water Reclamation Facility's constructed treatment wetlands as the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands at Viera. This dedication honored Ritch Grissom, a longtime employee at the adjacent treatment facility in Brevard County.
2008: The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands were included in the East Section of the Great Florida Birding Trail.
2014: The late Charlie Corbeil, a long-time volunteer at the site, was honored by naming the access road leading to the entrance of the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands after him.
Value of Conservation Land
The Designated property functions as an effective polishing system for water reuse. Additionally, visitors can access and enjoy a close-up opportunity to witness Brevard County's native wildlife and vegetation.
The wetlands provide a biologically diverse ecosystem and a mitigation littoral zone along the lake's shoreline is monitored to assess health and wildlife utilization.
The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands is located at 3658 Charlie Corbeil Way in Viera, Florida. Access is available from the opening at 7:00 AM until closing at 7:00 PM.
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